Alexandre M. Raymond, Ceiling Design Print, Bursa School, 1924, Paper

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Antique Ottoman Painted Ceiling Design Print, Old Bursa School, Alexandre Raymond, 1924 Original architectural lithograph from Alexandre M. Raymond's monumental … Read more Antique Ottoman Painted Ceiling Design Print, Old Bursa School, Alexandre Raymond, 1924 Original architectural lithograph from Alexandre M. Raymond's monumental publication *L'Art Islamique en Orient – IIe Partie*, depicting the painted ceiling of an ancient school in old Bursa, dated to approximately 1440. Issued as Plates 44–45, this remarkable composition records one of the finest surviving examples of early Ottoman interior decoration. The design combines interlocking geometric frameworks with richly stylized vegetal ornament, creating a harmonious synthesis of Seljuk traditions and emerging Ottoman aesthetics. The central field is organized around three radiant star medallions connected through an intricate network of polygons and intersecting lines. Each compartment is filled with elegant arabesques, scrolling foliage, and stylized leaves rendered in delicate shades of turquoise, sage green, terracotta, and gold. The surrounding borders employ classical chain and meander patterns, reinforcing the architectural rhythm of the composition. Decorative ceilings such as this formed an essential component of religious and educational architecture throughout Anatolia. Beyond their ornamental function, they embodied Islamic concepts of cosmic order, knowledge, and divine harmony. The mathematical precision of the geometry coexists with the vitality of the floral motifs, producing an effect that is both intellectual and deeply decorative. Alexandre M. Raymond meticulously documented these designs during his travels through Turkey in the early twentieth century. His work remains among the most authoritative visual records of Ottoman architectural ornament and continues to serve historians, architects, designers, and collectors. The sophisticated colour palette and broad horizontal format make this sheet particularly appealing as a statement piece in both traditional and contemporary interiors. Condition: Good original condition with age-related toning, a light central fold as issued, scattered foxing, and minor handling wear consistent with age. Colours remain exceptionally fresh and attractive. Framing recommendation: Sold unframed. The print is ideally suited to a wide ivory museum mat and a dark walnut or ebonized frame with a subtle gilt slip. Museum glass is recommended for conservation. Framed images are for visual inspiration only. Keywords: Bursa, old Bursa school, Ottoman ceiling, painted ceiling, Islamic ornament, Seljuk geometry, arabesque decoration, Ottoman interiors, Anatolian architecture, sacred geometry, educational architecture, Islamic decorative arts, floral motifs, medieval Turkey, architectural study, Alexandre Raymond, L'Art Islamique en Orient, antique lithograph, Turkish heritage, Ottoman design, geometric patterns, fifteenth century, Bursa monuments, Islamic craftsmanship. Technique: Original colour lithograph. Maker: Alexandre M. Raymond, French architect and scholar of Islamic architecture, Paris, 1924. Original antique print. Sold unframed. Framed illustrations shown elsewhere are for display purposes only. See less